Web Alert: Mandatory biofouling standards introduced in New Zealand from 15 May 2018

The New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) has introduced new mandatory biofouling standards that take effect from 15 May 2018. From that date, compliance with the Craft Risk Management Standard (CRMS) for biofouling will no longer be voluntary. MPI have already started monitoring vessels and are taking action against those posing a biofouling risk, including ordering two ships from New Zealand waters over the last year.

As from 15 May 2018, the new rules will require all international vessels arriving in New Zealand to meet clean hull standards. We encourage owners to visit the MPI website where the CRMS for biofouling can be found, together with other useful information as to what is considered a clean hull and how biofouling thresholds can be met. The biofouling rules can be found here and here. 

A comprehensive update on the issue as provided by Alistair Irving, P&I Services New Zealand can be found here. 

Should members have any queries concerning the contents of this web alert they should contact its author, or their usual club contacts.